Störbrücke, Itzehoe

The Störbrücke near Itzehoe consists of two parallel concrete arch structures that carry traffic side by side across the Stör River on Bundesautobahn 23. Both bridges feature a graceful tied-arch design that allows them to span the waterway with minimal intermediate supports.

The first bridge at this location opened in 1967 but suffered gradual concrete deterioration that required ongoing repairs over several decades. Engineers replaced these aging structures with new parallel bridges built between 2007 and 2015 using improved construction methods.

The bridge transformation process included a marathon event in February 2011, where participants completed twenty laps on the decommissioned structure.

The structure is designed for automobile traffic on the highway and is not open for pedestrian or bicycle access. Your best view of the twin bridges comes from the riverbanks or nearby vantage points where you can see both structures from a distance.

The foundations of both bridges sink approximately 20 meters deep into the ground through reinforced concrete piles to ensure stability in the local soil conditions. This deep anchoring was essential to safely support the weight of modern highway traffic over the waterway.